Best Geneticists in Spokane

Introduction to Genetics in Healthcare

Definition and Scope of Genetic Medicine

Genetic medicine is a field that focuses on the use of genetic information to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. It encompasses a wide range of applications, from identifying inherited disorders to guiding personalized treatment plans.

Common genetic conditions include chromosomal disorders like Down syndrome, single-gene disorders such as cystic fibrosis, and complex disorders with genetic components like certain cancers and heart diseases.

Importance of Genetic Services in Spokane

In Spokane, as in many other cities, there is an increasing need for genetic services due to advancements in genetic technology and a growing awareness of the role genetics plays in health.

Genetic information can significantly influence healthcare decisions, allowing for early interventions, targeted treatments, and improved preventive strategies tailored to an individual's genetic profile.

Types of Genetic Specialists

Medical geneticists are physicians specialized in diagnosing and managing genetic disorders. In Spokane, professionals like Dr. Michael Donlan and Dr. Sarah Dugan provide these services.

Genetic counselors, such as Kimberly Jensen in Spokane, assist individuals and families in understanding genetic conditions and making informed decisions about genetic testing and management.

Pediatric geneticists, like Dr. Michael Donlan and Dr. Sarah Dugan, specialize in genetic disorders that affect children, offering diagnosis and management from infancy through adolescence.

Choosing a Genetics Specialist in Spokane

Factors to Consider

Qualifications and Board Certifications

• Review of board certifications in Medical Genetics and Genomics
• Importance of additional certifications (e.g., Pediatrics for those specializing in genetic disorders in children)

Experience and Specializations

• Years of practice in genetics
• Subspecialties within genetics (e.g., cancer genetics, pediatric genetics)
• Relevance of educational background to genetic medicine

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Analysis of star ratings and number of reviews
• Consideration of written patient feedback when available

Hospital Affiliations

• Importance of affiliations with reputable hospitals in Spokane
• Access to additional resources and collaborative care

Types of Genetic Specialists in Spokane

Medical Geneticists

• Role and expertise of MDs specializing in genetics
• Examples from the provided data: Dr. Michael Donlan, Dr. Sarah Dugan

Genetic Counselors

• Importance of genetic counseling services
• Available genetic counselors in Spokane: Kimberly Jensen, Matthew Tschirgi, Tanya Lehfeldt, etc.

Pediatric Geneticists

• Specialists focusing on genetic disorders in children
• Relevance for families with hereditary conditions

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

Location and Office Hours

• Proximity to patients' residences or workplaces
• Availability of appointments and wait times

Insurance and Cost

• Verifying insurance coverage for genetic services
• Understanding potential out-of-pocket expenses

Language and Communication

• Availability of services in preferred languages
• Importance of clear communication in genetic counseling

Top-Ranked Genetics Specialists in Spokane

Medical Geneticists

Dr. Michael Donlan

• Highest star rating (5.0) with 2 reviews
• Board certifications in Medical Genetics and Genomics, and Pediatrics
• Education from Medical College of Wisconsin
• Contact: (509) 326-9510

Dr. Sarah Dugan

• Star rating of 2.3 with 3 reviews
• Board certifications in Medical Genetics and Genomics, and Pediatrics
• Education from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
• Affiliated with Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children's Hospital
• Contact: (509) 474-3810

Dr. Judith Martin

• Star rating of 1.7 with 3 reviews
• Board certification in Medical Genetics and Genomics
• Education from Lutheran Medical Center / School of Nursing
• Contact: (509) 474-7500

Genetic Counselors

Kimberly Jensen

• Star rating of 3.0 with 2 reviews
• Specializes in Genetic Counseling
• Contact: (509) 474-4058

Other Genetic Counselors

• Matthew Tschirgi
• Tanya Lehfeldt
• Evelyn Cabon
• Sheena Byerly
• Elena Fisher
• Cynthia Dolan
• Reena Dhaliwal
• Julie Wood

Additional Genetics Specialists

Dr. Bassem Bejjani

• Specializes in Pediatrics and Genetics
• Education from American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine
• Contact: (509) 474-6840

Dr. Erica Lay

• Board certifications in Medical Genetics and Genomics, and Pediatrics
• Affiliated with Texas Children's Hospital
• Contact: (509) 474-3810

Additional Resources for Finding Genetic Services in Spokane

Professional Organizations and Local Institutions

American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics

• Directory of certified genetic specialists
• Educational resources for patients

National Society of Genetic Counselors

• Find a genetic counselor tool
• Information on genetic conditions and testing

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children's Hospital

• Genetic services department information
• Referral process for genetic consultations

Online Tools and Directories

Healthgrades Website

• Detailed profiles of Spokane geneticists and counselors
• Patient reviews and ratings
• Contact information for scheduling appointments

Washington State Department of Health

• Resources on genetic services in the state
• Information on genetic screening programs

Preparing for Your Genetic Consultation

Gathering Family Medical History

• Creating a detailed family health tree
• Collecting medical records of relatives with genetic conditions

Questions to Ask During Your Appointment

• Inquiries about specific genetic tests
• Discussion of potential outcomes and their implications
• Understanding the cost and insurance coverage for genetic services